There were no injuries in a two vehicle crash that occurred Wednesday afternoon on Letson Street.

According to the report from the Kenton Police Department, 53 year old Charles Stocker, of Cambridge, Ohio, stopped his car on Letson and was preparing to turn right onto Steiner Avenue, when the vehicle was struck from behind by a westbound car being driven by 23 year old Michael Casperson, of Kenton.

The Kent State coach that was on duty the day a Kenton graduate died has been fired.

The Columbus Dispatch reports that Kent State University has fired their strength and conditioning coach Ross Bowsher, who the University claims provided false information about his required certification.

The coach was in charge of conditioning for the Golden Flashes at where offensive lineman Tyler Heintz passed away. The school released a statement saying they self reported the incident to the NCAA.

Over $50,000 in grant money has been awarded to Firefighters in Northern Hardin County

According to information from US Senator Sherrod Brown’s office, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a division of the Department of Homeland Security, has awarded $50,905 to the Northern Hardin County Fire District. T

The money is to be used for operations and safety, and is through the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program. The program is designed to support fire departments across the country.

]]>ONU Observatory Open for Solar Eclipse Viewinghttp://wktn.com/local-news/318530
WKTN NewsWed, 16 Aug 2017 09:16:00 -0500http://wktn.com/local-news/318530
The Ohio Northern University observatory will be open to the public to view “The Great American Solar Eclipse” from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 21.

The following story is from the ONU Facebook page:

The observatory is located on the west side of campus, off of Lincoln Avenue and near the baseball field.

“We will not experience totality in Ada, but the sun will be covered up to 85 percent,” said Jason Pinkney, Ph.D., professor of physics and astronomy and manager of the ONU observatory. “For viewers in Ada, the moon will make its first contact with the sun around 1:03 p.m., will reach its maximum eclipse around 2:28 p.m. and its last contact around 3:50 p.m. Thus, the sun will be partially blocked during the entire event.”

“Total solar eclipses are very rare for an observer who remains in a fixed location on Earth, with about one every 370 years, on average,” Pinkney said. “The last time a path of totality for a solar eclipse crossed the United States from coast to coast was 1918. The last time a solar eclipse crossed part of the nation was in 1991, in Hawaii.”

“However, an observer who travels can view a total solar eclipse more often. There are between two and five solar eclipses of some kind every year.”

Pinkney warns that it is dangerous to view this event without taking precautions, and the observatory provides a safe and exceptional viewing experience.

“It is not safe to stare directly at the sun, even when it is 85 percent covered by the moon, but we will have several ways to observe this upcoming event,” he said. “These will include the standard ‘eclipse glasses’ and pinhole projection viewers. We will also have at least three telescopes with solar filters that will provide very high resolution. These can reveal sunspots and prominences on the sun.”

ONU Astronomy Club students will be on hand to help with the event. In case of rain, the observatory roof will not be opened for a viewing.

A hit/skip crash late Monday night may have started as a road rage incident.

According to information from the Hardin County Sheriff's Office, the crash occurred in the 19,000 block of Township Road 97 near Belle Center. A late 90's or early 2000 white Dodge truck struck a vehicle and then fled the scene.

An occupant in the car was transported to a hospital in Lima by Alger EMS.

Deputies are continuing to search for the white truck, which may have gray or silver paint transfer on it from the the collision with the car.

The Kenton City Council met in regular fashion Monday evening at the City Building.

Lieutenant Robert Lutes, of the Kenton Police Department, introduced newly hired officer Jerrod Bowman to the council. Mayor Randy Manns welcomed him to the police force and told council that he had been highly recommended.

KPD Officer Jerrod Bowman

Council received minutes from the Parks & Recreation Board meeting held on July 11. The board received a quote for rubber flooring under the merry-go-round at Murray Park totaling $8,225. The next meeting will be held Tuesday, August 15 at 4:30pm.

Council also heard reports from:

School Board: Councilman Clint Sneary told council that school would be resuming for the Kenton district students on Thursday, August 17. Citizens are reminded to observe all traffic laws and to be especially observant during morning and afternoon school commutes.

BKP: the BKP Board will meet Monday, August 21 at 6:00pm.

Cemetery: the Cemetery Board will meet on Wednesday, August 30 at 6:00pm.

Regional Planning: the Regional Planning Committee will not meet in September.

Finance: the Finance Committee will meet next Monday at 5:30pm. Councilwoman Teresa Styer reminded council that the meetings will be held on the third Monday of each month, in order to provide the auditor’s office with additional time to prepare budgetary considerations and reports.

Downtown Revitalization: the Downtown Revitalization Committee has received and returned the final contract for the second phase of the project to the engineering firm OHM.

During old business, the council chose to move one piece of legislation to third reading in two weeks. The ordinance is amending the codified ordinance to increase the penalty for parking violations in limited time parking zones.

Under new business, council heard three pieces of legislation. An ordinance allowing for funds transfers in the General, Street, RSPO, Waterworks, and Sewer fund was moved to second reading and will be heard again in two weeks. The second piece of legislation, Ordinance Number 17-030, was voted to suspend the three-reading rule and passed unanimously. The ordinance allows for additional appropriations in the General and Sewer funds with the General fund amounts being utilized by the fire department. Fire Chief Tim Clark said that a portion of the appropriations are from a grant received to purchase a new heart monitor, and the other portion from the will of an estate bequeathed to the department. Chief Clark plans to use those funds to purchase new equipment, which he will discuss in more detail at a later date.

Council also heard a resolution establishing a minimum cash balance reserve for the general fund. City Auditor Brian Hattery addressed council about the proposed new fiscal policy, noting that it was not a modification to the codified ordinance, but rather an “unwritten rule, made written.” Hattery also described it as “good business practice” and indicated that the proposed amount, $600,000, would serve to provide a financial cushion in the event of unexpected, immediate-need expenses. The language in the resolution expressly states in Section II that “the reserve in the General Fund shall only be used when all other reasonable forms of budgeting have failed and said use has been agreed upon by the Council and Administration.” The council will hear the resolution again in two weeks.

During comments, Safety Service Director Jim Hites told council that mowing throughout the city will be finished on September 1 due to budgetary considerations. He also told council that the parking spots throughout the city were being painted in the evenings.

Mayor Randy Manns detailed how the 4th Ward is spending the $300,000 grant it received. Four homes are currently scheduled to be razed in the area, 140 new stop signs are being installed, roads are being paved, and work is being done to the ball diamond. He also praised the work of a local group, Pick Up and Shape Up, for voluntarily picking up trash at the area parks and throughout neighborhoods in the city.

Councilman Michael White told council that he had received comments regarding the mosquitos in the city. Safety Service Director Jim Hites said that he obtained quotes for mosquito spraying, but it was not done this year due to cost concerns. Council President Joel Althauser noted that members of the council and others did not notice a significant difference in the mosquito population after last year’s spraying.

The next meeting of the Kenton City Council will be held on Monday, August 28, 2017 at 7:00pm in council chambers.

Ron Clark, known to many as "America's Educator," was the Keynote Speaker for the Staff Opening Day. The activities were held at the Kenton Elementary School Cafeteria. Clark has been featured on the Today Show, CNN and Oprah.

Superintendent Jennifer Penczarski said everyone was amazed by Clark's presentation.

A memorial was erected Saturday morning in Harrod to honor the four Ohio sailors that were killed in the sinking of the USS Frank E. Evans in 1969.

Harrod was selected as the site for this memorial because one of the four Ohio men to perish was from Lima in Allen County. The USS Frank E. Evans sank in the South China sea in the early part of June in 1969. In total 74 men perished when the boat sank, four of those men being from Ohio.

Lima Resident and Shawnee High School graduate, Larry Allen Gracely was one of those men who perished on the USS Frank E. Evans. The monument is erected in Honor of Larry Gracely and the other 73 victims of the tragic boat sinking.

Five people were sentenced recently in Hardin County Common Pleas Court.

According to the documents from Hardin County Clerk of Courts Carrie Haudenshield's Office:

.William A. Oglesbee was sentenced to a total of 48 months in prison on two counts of theft and one count of burglary.

.Jason M. Schutte was sentenced to a total of 46 months in prison on one count each of posssion of heroin and attempted tampering with evidence.

The following three individuals were each placed on five years community control with conditions:

.Emilie L. Smith on one count of possession of heroin with two forfeiture specifications. She must forfeit $159 in cash to the Hardin County Sheriff's Office and a 2006 Hyundai automobile to the Hardin County Commissioners.

.Aaron Henthorne on one count of breaking and entering. He must serve 30 days local incarceration.

.Alyssa M. Burchiel on one count of attempted tampering with evidence.

The Immaculate Conception Church Summer Festival will take place this Sunday.

Chairperson Dr. Kate Johnson said the day offers something for everyone, "We will have entertainment, games, kids activities and of course some of the best food served, it's just a great day for everyone to enjoy."

For the complete discussion, tune in Public Eye, tomorrow morning at 7:35 on WKTN or on the Public Eye podcast on your favorite mobile device, or on wktn.com.

The Immaculate Conception Catholic Church is holding its annual Summer Festival this Sunday.

Festival Chairperson Dr. Kate Johnson said it is the oldest church festival in the county, " It started in the 1950's when the nuns were operating San Antonio Hospital, and they held a Lawn Fete as a fundraiser. We have progressed from there and try different things every year."

For the complete discussion, tune in Public Eye, Saturday morning at 7:35 on WKTN or on the Public Eye podcast on your favorite mobile device, or on wktn.com.

The Kenton City Schools is hosting a motivational speaker on Monday August 14.

Ron Clark, known to many as "America's Educator," will be the Keynote Speaker for the Staff Opening Day at the Kenton Elementary School Cafeteria. He has been featured on the Today Show, CNN and Oprah.

The day starts with breakfast at 7, followed by a district meeting from 8 until 9 and Clark will speak from 9-11. The day will conclude with a book signing by Clark, and books will be available for purchase.

Non-Kenton City School employees can register to attend Clark's address. The cost for non-employees is $75 per person and $250 for a team of 5. Call Linda Dickerson to register by calling 419-673-0775 extension 6021.

According to the Kenton Police Department report, officers were called to the 900 block of Meadow Lane to investigate trespassers in a vacant apartment.

Officers charged the three,identified as Joseph Robinson, of West Mansfield, John Messer Jr.,of Bellefontaine and Ronnie Harmon Jr., all 20 of Kenton, with criminal trespass. All three are scheduled to be in Hardin County Municipal Court Thursday afternoon.

A 16 year old female was also in the apartment but has not been charged.

Kent State is unable to produce documents proving the school’s head strength coach has proper certification.

According to Ross Bowsher from cbssports.com, who was overseeing the activities when Tyler Heintz passed away, may have been the only member of the coaching staff without certification.

Bowsher is starting his second year with the program, and if not certified, would be in violation of NCAA Bylaw 11.1.5 which claims that coaches must maintain a current certification through a national accredited program.

Heintz was the 35th college football player to die since the year 2000. Heintz died June 13th after collapsing during the second day of workouts due to hyperthermia.

The Ridgemont Board of Education met in executive session Tuesday evening to interview an internal candidate for the full time superintendent’s position.

According to the press release the Superintendent’s Position will be available on July 1, 2018 when the one year interim position concludes. Board members are committed to filling the superintendent position with a candidate which will continue the positive culture of student and staff empowerment through real life learning experiences.

The Board is encouraged that a strong candidate exists within the district as they consider succession planning. Their primary goal is to preserve the work built through the District’s Directional System and select a candidate who brings the district to the next level.

A vast majority of our Visitor Poll voters are against getting a microchip implanted.

Of those responding to the question, 95% said they would not allow their employer to embed a microchip in them. The remaining 5% said they would.

The question was based on a Wisconsin company where some employees allowed their employer to implant microchips that will allow them to open doors, log onto computers or buy breakroom snacks by simply waving their hand.

The Hardin County Agricultural Society met Saturday, August 5, 2017, at the Hardin County Fairgrounds for their monthly board meeting. Seventeen directors and 16 guests were present.

Howard Lyle, President, called the meeting to order.

Mark Badertscher, representing the OSU Extension Office, discussed the cases of swine flu at some county fairs. He also talked about needing a backup location for the carcass show for Thursday, Sept. 14th.

Clay Hastings and three of his friends stated they were building a car for the demolition derby in memory of Keegan McKee. They wanted the car to be accessible to the community for people to sign the car, which will be donated to Keegan’s family. The board stated it could be located in the infield before the derby.

Mark Light, representing the OSU 4-H Extension Office, stated 4-H livestock interviews will be on August 8th from 1-8pm and last chance for Quality Assurance will be on August 9th from 1-3pm. He stated he has had more requests from 4-H clubs wanting a booth this year for the fair. Horse Council wants to update electrical in the Horse Barn. Jim Bidwell and Greg Liedel moved to let the community trick or treat through the 4-H building, an event being sponsored by 4-H council. Motion passed.

Jack McBride stated there is 2660 Jr. Fair entries.

Correspondences were read from the Ohio Dept. of Agriculture’s State Veterinarian and Chief, ODA Division of Animal Health, regarding Swine influenza and erysipelas. It was stated in the letter that both of these illnesses can be directly transmitted between swine and humans in the same way that illness can be transmitted between people. Information will be posted throughout the swine building about proper sanitation, there will be hand washing/sanitizing stations near all entrances to the barns, and people are to refrain from bringing food and drinks into the barns. The board received an email from Jessica Jones regarding her sister who is battling rectal cancer. The directors moved to donate 2 tickets to the Lauren Alaina concert to them. A thank you letter from the Kenton Area Summer Swim Team Board was read, regarding the use of the fairground’s trash barrels during their Summer Swim Champs. An invitation to Hardin Soil & Water Conservation Dist. and Natural Resources Conservation Service’s customer appreciation day was read.

Jim Bidwell spoke on behalf of the Grounds Committee. It was noted ridge vents have been installed in the horse barn to help with ventilation, money was donated for this project. Tice Construction have poured a new sidewalk to the community building and sidewalks around the new show arena. New fans have been installed in the show arena and tarps have been ordered for the new show arena. Memorial signs for the livestock barn projects were discussed. A work day for the directors has been set for Saturday, August 12th and the next ground’s committee meeting is set for Monday, August 14th at 7pm.

It was noted the Ag. Society is still waiting on the State Camping License. There are currently 2 fair campers who have not paid for their camping spots for 2017. These are new campers for this year. Craig Stump stated a camping meeting will be held after this board meeting.

Judi Cronley, gave an update on how ticket sales were going for the Lauren Alaina Concert. Ticket sales continue on the Fair’s website through pay pal and in the office from 9am-5pm Monday-Friday. 600 tickets have been sold so far.

All livestock judges have been acquired for the fair. Weigh licenses have been received. Rabbit tattooing will be on Saturday, August 12th from 9am-11am. The swine barns are going to be disinfected. The goat scrapie paper is going to be on the OSU 4-H website for accessibility. It was decided to purchase mulch for the new show arena.

Janie Seiler, representing the rides/concession’s dept. stated all booths in the buildings have been filled. Outside space is still available. There is a new implement dealer coming to the fair, along with a couple new food vendors. Ray Davis and Don Spar moved to not let another group sub lease from the Genealogy Society during the week of the fair. This is per rule #8 and #32 as stated on their contract. They will be notified. The same amount of golf carts will be ordered for the fair week, which has been used in the past. Departments needing tents during the week of the fair, need to be turned in to Janie Seiler, by Monday, August 28th.

Committee reports for Jr. Fair board kids were given to the directors. It was suggested that the kids meet with their department chair people at 8:15am on August 19th before fair work day begins. The board moved to have a Jr. Fair board kid answer the phone in the office for a couple hours a day during the fair.

Kolt Buchenroth mentioned the internet speed during the week of the fair is not fast enough to do a live internet video stream. This issue will be researched.

Under old business:

Jr. Fair entries were due on July 31st. Open class entries are now being accepted in the office or by going on line and submitting them that way until August 18th. The fair office is now open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm. All reserved tickets can be purchased in the office now. Season tickets have gone on sale in the community and the fair website has a list of where tickets can be purchased.

A Hope For Heather Craft and Vendor Show is scheduled for Sunday August 27 in Forest.

The fundraiser will be held at the corner of Lima and Gormley Streets in Forest.

Heather worked as an EMT until she was no longer able to work due to her medical condition.

In addition to the Craft and Vendor Show, the day will also feature food, fun and entertainment.

All the proceeds go to Heather and her family to help offset medical expenses.

]]>Kenton Woman Aims to Make Tracks Saferhttp://wktn.com/local-news/317262
Kolt BuchenrothMon, 07 Aug 2017 14:55:00 -0500http://wktn.com/local-news/317262Laurel Rogers lost her son the beginning of May. A tragedy felt by many in the Kenton community. But, Laurel is determined to ensure something of this nature doesn’t happen again.

“I just felt as if two children was enough.” Rogers Said.

Railroad crossing gates are set to be installed at that crossing on County Road 60. The project will be completed by railroad transport company CSX.

Rogers credits Dom Tiberi of Maria’s Message, and Representative Robert Sprague’s office for helping to jumpstart this project, which is set to be completed by this time next year.

The American Red Cross urges blood donors to give in the final weeks of summer to help overcome a chronic summer blood shortage.

In August, regular donors may delay giving as final summer vacations are planned and back-to-school activities ramp up. To fully meet the needs of hospital patients in the coming days and weeks, donations are urgently needed from new and current donors. Those who donated blood earlier this summer may be eligible to donate again. Blood can be safely donated every 56 days, and Power Red cells can be donated every 112 days.

There are two blood drives scheduled in Hardin County this month.

They are:

In Kenton on Monday August 28 from noon until 6 at First Baptist Church, County Road 175

And in Forest Wednesday August 30 from 2 until 7 at McVitty Memorial VFW, 204 West Lima Street.

A trial date has been set for a former Riverdale teacher who is facing sex related charges.

26 year old Brooke Rosendale was indicted in late June on three counts of sexual battery. She pleaded not guilty to the charges in July, and at a pretrial hearing late last week, the trial was set to begin January 8, 2018.

Rosendale, a former fifth grade intervention specialist and High School Girls Volleyball and Basketball coach, is accused of engaging in sexual conduct with a 13 year old student on three different times starting in January of this year.

According to the report from the Kenton Police Department a man came on station Sunday afternoon around 2:25pm to report that his son’s gun was stolen from the garage in the 300 block of East Columbus Street in Kenton. No make or model was listed and the report describes it as a brown stock, with either a 22 cal black barrel or 20ga black barrel.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is reminding small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations that Sept. 5 is the filing deadline for federal economic injury disaster loans in Ohio as a result of the drought from June 1 through Oct. 4, 2016.

The declaration includes Hancock, Hardin, Marion, Union and Wyandot Counties.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to eligible farm-related and nonfarm-related entities that suffered financial losses as a direct result of this disaster.

The loans are for working capital and can be up to $2 million with interest rates of 4 percent for eligible small businesses and 2.625 percent for nonprofit organizations, and terms up to 30 years.

The R.E. & Joan S. Allen Foundation announced the awarding of $66,000 in scholarships to 52 students in 2017.

In May, 2017 the Allen Foundation awarded 24 first year scholarships in the amount of $30,500,

Second year scholarships in the amount of $17,000

Third year scholarships in the amount of $10,000

And Fourth year scholarships in the amount of $8500

Since 1991, the Allen Foundation has awarded scholarships to 1367 different students in the amount of $2,450,150.

The scholarships are made possible by an endowment from R.E. & Joan S. Allen in 1990 following the sale of their Imperial Cup Plant in Kenton. Grants are available to graduating seniors of Kenton High School and to employees and immediate family members of International Paper Food Service Business in Kenton.

The cheerleaders placed 2nd at their first competition at the Wood County Fair. 8 girls from the varsity squad have been practicing since June to compete against other schools. The cheerleaders are set to go to more competitions. The next one is set for next weekend.

(Photo: Cindy Snyder Deardorff/Facebook)

]]>Pride of the Wildcats Gets Ready for Wildcat Footballhttp://wktn.com/local-news/317065
Alex HaushalterSat, 05 Aug 2017 07:03:00 -0500http://wktn.com/local-news/317065The Kenton High School Marching Band has been hard at work this past week at their annual band camp. This year the group boasts 79 members, the most band members in almost eight years. Both students and directors are excited about the talent and number they have this year. Senior Elaina Schaub is beyond impressed with the improvement she has seen from her freshman year until now. Many of the 14 seniors this year cited how they wish they could stay on for at least one more year and keep progressing with the band!

This week, band members have been learning marching fundamentals, the halftime show for the first football game on August 25th, and of course forming a tight bond with each other.

Senior Morgan Kohl stated that band camp to her is about "instilling positive leadership and respect within all members." The Kenton Band not only wants to showcase their talent but to be a positive representation of Kenton High School!

]]>Kenton Football Tickets On Sale Next Weekhttp://wktn.com/local-news/317064
WKTN NewsSat, 05 Aug 2017 06:53:00 -0500http://wktn.com/local-news/317064Tickets for the Kenton High School Wildcat Football games are going on sale soon.

According to information from Kenton High School Athletic Director Joey Day, Reserved seats go on sale August 14th at 8:00am at the Kenton High School Office. Those seats are $35 per seat. If you are planning on renewing your reserved tickets, you are urged to email dayj@kentoncityschools.org.

Parking passes will be sold for all home football games. Those with passes will be able to park in the first row directly behind the stadium at Robinson Field. Those passes are being sold for $20.

Presale tickets for the cats will go on sale on Wednesdays of a home game. Buying presale tickets will save you two dollars on student tickets. All tickets are $6 at the gate.

The first home regular season game is scheduled for Friday, September 8th at 7:00p.m. against the Defiance Bulldogs.

Senior Citizen tickets can be picked up the same day, but are a lifetime pass and do not need renewed annually. Senior citizen passes can only be obtained by residents of the Kenton City Schools District who are over 65 years old.

Adult Punch Cards offer $36.00 worth of admission into KMS or KHSS regular season home athletic contests. The cost of the punch cards is $30.00, and can be purchased at the KHS athletics office, or at any regular season home athletic event.

Construction on the wind turbine project near Dunkirk continued Thursday.

Hog Creek Project LLC, which is affiliated with the Minnesota based Renewable Energy Systems Americas, started the construction process in late fall of 2016 and following a break, restarted in May. It continued Thursday with the pouring of concrete in advance of putting the turbines in place.

The Ohio State Patrol urges motorists to pay full time attention especially during the times kids will be travelling to and from school.

As School Bus Safety Month continues, Lt. Matt Crow, Commander of the Findlay Post of the Ohio State Patrol, said you should always be prepared when driving, "It only takes a second to look down at something or maybe reach for the McDonald's breakfast and something stops in front of you and you don't have enough time to stop, so we encourage everyone to pay full time attention when behind the wheel."

For the complete discussion, tune in Public Eye Saturday morning at 7:35 on WKTN.

An Ada man was arraigned Wednesday in Hardin County Common Pleas Court on multiple sex related charges.

According to documents filed in Clerk of Courts Carrie Haudenshield’s office, Albert Mast Sr. pleaded not guilty to 123 counts that were contained in the indictment. They include 20 counts of rape, 68 counts of gross sexual imposition, 15 counts of sexual imposition and 20 counts of sexual battery.

Mast was found indigent and Todd Workman was appointed as his attorney. Bond was set at $150,000 cash, surety or 10 percent with the condition that he wear an ankle bracelet monitor through the conclusion of the trial which was set for December 12 through the 14, 2017.

The month of August is School Bus Safety month as students prepare to go back to school.

Lt. Matt Crow, Commander of the Findlay Post of the Ohio State Patrol, urges motorists to drive carefully when school busses are out. He also said pay close attention to speed limits in school zones as well. Lt. Crow said violations can be costly, "A mandatory court appearance is required, plus the fines and penalties can be pretty stiff as well."

For the complete discussion, tune in Public Eye this Saturday morning at 7:35 on WKTN.

The highway construction schedule within Hardin County has been released by the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Tarring and chipping of the roadway will take place with traffic maintained through the work zone on State Route 53 between Forest and Patterson and State Route 385 throughout Hardin County starting next week.

Also State Route 195 over Cottonwood Ditch, south of McGuffey is expected to reopen to traffic perhaps as early as Friday, August 4. That stretch of 195 has been closed since early June for a bridge repair project.

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine announced Wednesday that his office is awarding more than $2.7 million in grant funds to a number of law enforcement agencies across the state for drug use prevention education programs in public schools.

A total of 130 sheriffs' offices and police departments will receive a portion of the $2.7 million dollars in Drug Use Prevention Grant funds, which will be used to establish or maintain drug abuse prevention education and awareness programs for students during the 2017 - 2018 school year.

In our region, grants in varying amounts were awarded to the Hardin County, Allen County and Auglaize County Sheriff's Offices as well as police departments in Bellefontaine, Lima and Marysville.

An Ada man was arraigned Monday in Hardin County Common Pleas Court on several sex related charges.

According to documents filed in Clerk of Courts Carrie Haudenshield's Office, 68 year old Dennis L. Dellifield pleaded not guilty Monday to four counts of attempted pandering obscenity involving a minor, two counts of attempted illegal use of a minor in nudity oriented material and two counts of attempted use of a minor in nudity oriented material and performance.

Bond was set at $50,000 cash or surety, and the trial was scheduled for November 14 and 15.

Dellifield will be required to wear an ankle monitor through November 15.

A 12 year old girl was injured after being struck by a car around 7:30 Monday evening in Marion County.

According to a release from the Marion Post of the Ohio State Patrol, the girl attempted to walk across Marion Cardington Road when she was struck by an eastbound car being driven by 48 year old Roger L. Mitchell, of Marion.

The girl was taken by helicopter to Children’s Hospital in Columbus with life threatening injuries.

According to the report, a resident in the 400 block of Carroll Street told officers her home was forcibly entered while she was out of town.

A mini fridge and a flat screen television were stolen.

A suspect was listed but has not yet been charged.

]]>Hardin County Hazard Mitigation Plan Public Review Periodhttp://wktn.com/local-news/316108
Press ReleaseMon, 31 Jul 2017 13:21:00 -0500http://wktn.com/local-news/316108
The Hardin County EMA is pleased to announce that the Hardin County All-Hazards Mitigation Plan will be available for public review from August 7th through August 21st. The plan will be posted at www.consultrsa.com/hardin and comments can be made through the website. A printed copy of the draft plan is available at the Hardin County EMA, 1025 South Main Street, Room 111, Kenton and can be viewed by appointment. Max Trachsel, Hardin County EMA Director, is available by phone at 419-674-2276.

The All-Hazard Mitigation Plan identifies the threats and hazards that can cause significant disruption and damage in Hardin County, and lists actions that can be taken locally to decrease the cost of disaster response and recovery by reducing the community’s vulnerability. The plan establishes county eligibility for special funding to support mitigation actions, and facilitates collaborative efforts to address damages as a whole community.

The mitigation plan is the result of a year’s planning efforts by Hardin County and the municipalities and townships across the county. Input meetings were held at two times to discuss disasters and losses with the jurisdictions, and input was received from all of them. This plan represents the culmination of much community effort to improve disaster resiliency and protect the population from harm. Over 100 county residents have been involved in providing input and information for this plan.

The public review period is August 7 – 21, 2017. Any and all comments will be considered. The plan will be submitted for state review by the end of the month, and shortly after will be sent to FEMA for federal approval. Hardin County and its municipalities will be asked to adopt the plan once FEMA issues federal approval. That approval is anticipated sometime in late 2017.

An open comment meeting will be held at Veteran’s Hall in the Hardin County Court House, One Court House Square, Kenton on Monday, August 7 from 3:00 until 7:00 pm. The EMA Director and plan contractor will be on site to answer questions and receive comments in person. Public officials, county residents, and other interested parties are encouraged to attend this meeting to learn about the plan and submit their comments. No reservations are required. Questions can be directed to Max Trachsel, EMA Director, at 419-674-2276 or Sandy Hovest, plan contractor at 419-602-7488 or sandy@consultrsa.com.

]]>Cross Campaign Raises Over $78,000 From Supportershttp://wktn.com/local-news/316104
Press ReleaseMon, 31 Jul 2017 13:15:00 -0500http://wktn.com/local-news/316104
(7/31/17) Kenton, OH – the Friends of Jon Cross committee announces that the campaign has raised over $78,000 from supporters backing Jon’s candidacy for State Representative of the 83rd Ohio House district.

The committee has filed its 2017 semiannual campaign finance report with the Ohio Secretary of State’s office, in which $69,309 was raised with no debt or loans between January 1st through June 30th of this year.

A previous local campaign finance report was filed in 2016, in which the campaign raised an additional $8,707, making the combined fundraising total to-date $78,016.90.

“Jon is grateful for the overwhelming level of support. His ability to connect with many supporters and earn their vote of financial confidence reinforces his formidable candidacy. Raising $78,000 is a record setting pace for the 83rd district this early in the 2018 election cycle and that signals voters are ready for new leadership with fresh ideas," said campaign chairman Matt Jennings.

The campaign also continues to gain momentum with endorsements and grassroots support as well. In addition to the strong amount of donors, the campaign committee has increased in size to over 80 community leaders from Hancock, Hardin and Logan counties. This includes the recent addition of local farmer and small business owner Andy McBride to serve as an additional co-chair for Hardin County.

Last month, the campaign announced its county leadership team, which included Cheryl Blakely and Edward Ingold co-chairs for Hancock County; Charles VanDyne, Rosalie Elliott, along with Andy McBrice co-chairs for Hardin County; and Doug & LIbby Zimmerman and Mark & Joan Haushalter co-chairs for Logan County. Additional endorsement announcements will be forthcoming.

On July 28, 2017, the Union County Grand Jury returned indictments on sixteen individuals after a tenmonth investigation conducted by members of the Multi-Agency Drug Task Force (M.A.D.E.). These indictments are the result of the continuing commitment by the task force agencies to fully investigate drug trafficking offenses within Union County.

The following individuals were indicted by the grand jury for their alleged role in drug overdose death investigations, and drug overdose incidents where there was no death but substantial harm was sustained. Brandon Gunner Redd, age 26, of Marysville was indicted for Involuntary Manslaughter, Corrupting Another with Drugs, Possessing Criminal Tools, Possession of Heroin and Possession of Cocaine due to his alleged role in arranging and facilitating the purchase and use of heroin and crack cocaine which resulted in the death of a 21 year old female in the 21000 block of Shirk Road. Wendy Bickley, age 34, of Marysville was indicted for Tampering with Evidence, Deception to Obtain a Dangerous Drug, Aggravated Possession of Drugs and Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs. Bickley allegedly stole her 35 year old husband’s prescription slip for Hydrocodone and had it filled at a pharmacy, while the husband was in a hospital suffering from symptoms related to a drug overdose. The husband died from the overdose after using a mixture of fentanyl and diazepam. Cody A. Coleman, age 23, and Patric Scheiderer, age 22, both of Marysville were indicted for Corrupting Another with Drugs, Trafficking in Heroin, Possession of Heroin and Possessing Criminal Tools, because they allegedly supplied an individual with drugs that resulted in the person being transported to the hospital, and the individual is still suffering from life altering complications from the drug overdose. Victoria Long, age 25, of Marysville was indicted for Failure to Report a Crime, Involuntary Manslaughter, Permitting Drug Abuse and Trafficking in Drugs due to allegedly not calling 9-1-1 when observing her roommate experiencing overdose symptoms are ingesting heroin, fentanyl and alprazolam that resulted in the roommate’s death in the area of 925 West Fifth Street. Austin Hart, age 23, of Milford Center was indicted for Corrupting Another with Drugs, Trafficking in Heroin, and Possession of Heroin due to Hart allegedly supplying heroin to an individual who experienced an overdose, and had to receive lifesaving treatment from EMS units while being transported to a hospital.

Chief Golden would like the public to know that “there is an immunity law in place for individuals seeking medical intervention for an individual experiencing an overdose. The purpose of the law is designed to give immunity to the caller and the person experiencing the overdose, so the person’s life can be saved. It is not designed for law enforcement to file criminal charges against the caller. In the cases presented to the grand jury, medical intervention was possible to save the lives; however, with the choices made, now the individual is looking at serving several years in prison. I encourage any friend or family member witnessing a drug overdose to call 9-1-1.”

Prosecutor Phillips would like the public to know that “Drug abuse is sometimes thought of as being a victimless crime. That’s not true. Parents and families of addicts suffer, and are often victimized. Tragically, people die from an overdose of illicit narcotics. Many of these deaths are preventable if immediate help is sought. The Task Force and my office will hold accountable those responsible for these needless deaths.” The remaining individuals indicted by the grand jury included Angelica Dawn Stevenson, Mark Bright, Nicholas Monnin, Justin Lendl Leasure, Jason Isaacs, Travis Lively, Aerial Nicole May, Steffanie D. Reiss, Bryan Beverly and Jeffrey Scott Blake. The charges included – Possession of Heroin, Trafficking in Heroin, Possessing Criminal Tools, Aggravated Possession of Drugs, Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, Possession of Cocaine, Trafficking in Cocaine and/or Deception to Obtain a Dangerous Drug.

Sheriff Patton wants the public to know that the task force was formed by himself, Chief Floyd Golden and Union County Prosecutor David Phillips with these types of drug investigations in mind. The officers assigned to the task force specialize in all aspects of drug investigations which are shown from the charges filed. Many times there is not a single source of supply, and the drug investigations overlap both the county's and city's jurisdiction. So, to combat the drug issues it takes everyone working together.

The task force members include the Marysville Police Department, Union County Prosecutor’s Office and the Union County Sheriff’s Office. The task force was assisted by the Union County Coroner’s Office.

There have been several people wanting to know about the direction that the Helen Mabrey Shoe Fund is going to take since the closing of K-Mart earlier this year. Director Sandra Moore is happy to announce that the details have been finalized with the new shoe store Shoe Sensation in Kenton’s shopping center.

Moore has worked with Shoe Sensation in making the decision of pricing for specific sizes. The Helen Mabrey Shoe Fund is maintained through the Hardin County Business and Professional Women’s Club. After seeing the larger selection of shoes and prices in the new shoe store, the BPW Club has voted to allow for $30 for smaller children’s sizes and $45 for the larger sizes. Shoe Sensation will offer certain brands of shoes with size 7 or smaller for up to $30. It will then offer certain brands of shoes for size 8 and larger for up to $45. If the chosen shoe costs more than allowed for either of the two groups, the parent or guardian will be expected to pay the difference. All parents or guardians are reminded that only ONE pair of shoes a year is allowed per student from this fund and THAT student must be at the store to try on the substantially adequate shoes for selection. The Shoe Sensation staff will work to obtain the correct size for the student’s feet and keep a record for reference. This is for students from kindergarten through grade 12 and does not include preschool in Hardin County.

Moore has completed a new application for shoes and delivered it to Helping Hands in Kenton so that anyone can obtain an application there in a timely manner. She has already received 157 applications, which can include several children on each, from Hardin County residents. She is working to divide these into groups since the work to select does take some time. She asks for patience from anyone who is requesting shoes. Her plan is to make a mailing about every two weeks which should allow the store to not be hurried and thus be able to provide the appropriate shoe in a timely manner. She must complete approval or disapproval letters which are sent to the applicants and then delivers a list of approved names to Shoe Sensation. Each applicant presents the letter to the staff at Shoe Sensation as no other store will be used for this fund. The first group of approved applicants should receive their letters by August 1.

If anyone needs an application, Director Moore is willing to send one. Please write to the Helen Mabrey Shoe Fund at PO Box 505, Kenton, OH 43326. The PO Box is also used to receive any donations for the shoe fund. Please keep in mind that this fund is tax exempt. Shoe Sensation offers many brand name shoes that are well made or are guaranteed. BPW decided to make a few more brands available for the older students by increasing the allowance to $45, and thus, all donations will be greatly appreciated. Clearance sale shoes are included in the possible choices to make each student feel better about themselves as they begin another year of learning. BPW hopes that this helps to start the school year on the right foot for all Hardin County students.

It’s all about going back to the basics for Kenton Vocal Music Instructor and Top Twenty Director Mr. Todd Daquino.

“So this is the 50th anniversary of Cabaret and we wanted to do something that just was a throwback to what got us here as a Show Choir. Before Top Twenty was a show choir, it was a magical group, but in 1969 we had the first Cabaret and really progressed this way. We thought singing, dancing and music in general.”

Daquino says their show’s songs all revolve around the music theme.

“Our opener is a song called “The Message” made popular by Nate James, and then we go into a swing tune called “Can You Hear The Music?” by the Downchild Blues Band. Our balad is a song from the hit show Smash it’s called “Second Hand White Baby Grand.” Our Guys’ number is a novelty number this year, and it’s called “Air Guitar” by a group McBusted. Our girls number depending on licensing rights is one that we’re still trying to work out right now and we’ll know soon. Our closer then is “Sing” by Pentatoix.”

The group competes in several competitions in and out of Ohio.

“Competitions are important because they kind of give us a Barometer against other schools but against ourselves too, it gives us something to work towards. All the categories we get scored in are important concepts that I’m teaching in music classes, so it’s important that we go and challenge ourselves to be the best that we can be and we have an external award to accomplish it. We are going to six competitions this year.”

“I think they’re a lot of fun, honestly. You get to meet a lot of new people from other schools and you get to make new friends, and new memories that everyone can share with each other later on in the future.”

]]>AT ISSUE: Heartbeat of Hardin Countyhttp://wktn.com/local-news/315920
WKTN NewsSat, 29 Jul 2017 09:32:00 -0500http://wktn.com/local-news/315920Heartbeat of Hardin County continues to provide services to area residents. Executive Director Julie Zaring talks about what her agency does

“Heartbeat is set up to do free pregnancy tests, help people that are facing an unplanned pregnancy, or even a pregnancy they were planning and ‘oh my goodness, look at all of the cost that’s involved with this and I need help.’ Babies are expensive. We do free pregnancy tests and we can do the verification form for job and family services and for WIC.”

Zaring said there is always something to be done

“We can always use volunteers in different ways to even help with fundraising, to help with putting clothes out, washing clothes, at our meetings we can use help.”

According to a press release from the Board of Elections office, Petitions to run for Township Trustees, School Boards, Village Council, Board of Public Affairs, or local issues must be submitted by August 9th at 4pm at the Board of Elections Office. The general election is November 7th.

The petitions are available at the Board of Elections office in the basement of the Hardin County Courthouse.

According to a release from Ridgemont Superintendent Emmy Beeson, The board recognized Board Member Corey Ledley for receiving the Ohio Association for Career and Technical Education Outstanding Board Member of the Year Award. and Agricultural Education Instructor Stephanie Jolliff for receiving the Carl Perkins Community Service Teacher of The Year.

The board has opted to fill the vacancy of the outgoing Beeson with two retired superintendent. They are Dr. Suzanne Darmer, formerly of Ada, and Ms. Ann Harvey, formerly of the Auglaize County ESC.

The board accepted the resignation of Doug Csikos, and hired Thomas Jarvis and Katie Lafontaine. Jarvis will replace the outgoing Csikos and Lafontaine will be an intervention specialist.

The district is also seeking bids for paving the new student parking lot. The lot will create 104 new spots for students to park.

According to a post on the Police Department’s Facebook page, the department has received $1,600 toward the K9 program. The department says they look forward to serving the Ada community with their new K9 member.

According to a release from the Hardin County Sheriff's office, Dennis L. Dellifield and Albert L. Mast Sr., both of ada, were arrested yesterday in unrelated incidents.

Dellifield’s charges to 8 different counts of varying severity, but center around pandering nudity and obscenities with a minor. The charges stem from an investigation conducted by the Ada Police Department, Hardin County Sheriff's office, and was assisted by the Hardin County Prosecutor’s office and the Prosecutor’s Tech Crimes Division.

Mast’s charges total 123 counts including 20 counts of Rape and 53 counts of Gross Sexual Imposition. That investigation was led by the Hardin County Sheriff's Office, and assistance was provided by the Morrow County Sheriff's Office, The Hardin County Prosecutor’s Office, as well as the Sheriff's and Prosecutor’s Tech Crimes Division.

According to the report provided by the Kenton Police Department report, A vehicle being operated by 51 year old Tracy Sherman of Columbus was traveling northbound on Broadway street in the city when he struck a parked car.

Sherman fled the scene, but was later found when the vehicle broke down. He was transported to OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospital via BKP ambulance as drugs and/or alcohol were suspected to be a factor in that crash.

Severe damage occurred to both vehicles. Sherman was charged with Driving Under the Influence.

]]>KHS Gearing Up For School Yearhttp://wktn.com/local-news/315631
WKTN NewsThu, 27 Jul 2017 09:30:00 -0500http://wktn.com/local-news/315631Parents of Kenton High School students should expect to see back to school information soon.

According to a post on the KHS website, information regarding fees, required vaccinations, bussing details, laptop insurance, registration information, and much more will be arriving in mailboxes in the school’s annual “Welcome Back” Newsletter. The school’s main office is now open for questions and concerns.

In that same post, KHS Principal Chad Thrush notes that incomplete schedules were posted online throughout the summer, students are reminded to pick up their final schedules at the annual open house, which is August 14th.

An Upper Scioto Valley student requested that the 2018 graduation date be changed to avoid a possible conflict with a sporting event.

The school's graduation is set for May 25, the same day that the high school track regional will be held. The student told the USV Board of Education at this week's meeting that athletes making the regional meet would be forced to choose between participating in the graduation ceremony or competing at the regional.

According to information from the school, the request was taken under advisement by the board, which could decide the issue at the next meeting on August 14.

The Kenton City Council met in regular fashion Monday evening at the City Building.

Dale Albert, Utilities Director for the City of Kenton, introduced Nathan Frankel, a new employee within the department. Frankel addressed council and said he was looking forward to working with the city and its administration.

The council received a balance sheet from the auditor’s office that reflected a net income loss for the month of June in the General Fund. The sheet indicates that transfers in totaled $296,030.31 while disbursements equaled $495,558.64, leaving the city with a negative monthly balance of minus $199,528.33. The cash fund balance for the General Fund at the end of June shows a positive amount at $679,445.35. President Joel Althauser mentioned during his comments later in the meeting that the council needed to be aware of strict budgetary considerations forthcoming as the city moved into August. City Auditor Brian Hattery seconded the sentiment.

During committee reports, the council heard from:

Cemetery: the Cemetery Board will meet on Monday, August 7 at 7:00pm.

BKP: the BKP Board met last week and hopes to have final drawings for the truck next week.

School Board: the Kenton City Board of Education showed a good carryover from the 2016 fiscal year and provided a list of new teachers to the council.

Under old business, council unanimously voted to pass a piece of legislation to vacate the alley lying between inlot number 14 of Adam Schneider’s addition and inlot number 90 of A. Letson’s 3rd addition to the city. The legislation had gone the required three readings before being passed.

During new business, council heard five pieces of legislation. One ordinance provided for fund transfers to cover telephone expenses, cleaning supplies, and liability insurance for the City Building. Another ordinance provided for appropriations for repairs to the sewer plant and restocking fish at the quarry; it was pointed out to council that the fish restocking was actually a donation from a private citizen, but had to be accounted for as a line item. Two ordinances addressed amendments to the Kenton Codified Ordinances in regards to lawn negligence and parking violations. Specifically, the amendments provided for prosecution for property owners found to be in violation of the lawn and noxious weed ordinances within city limits. A violation and noncompliance with the ordinance will now be a minor misdemeanor charge. The change takes effect 30 days from Monday night’s council meeting. The amendment for parking violations raises the fee for violating the downtown 2-hour parking limit to $25. Those committing a violation who fail to pay the penalty within 72 hours will be cited into the Hardin County Municipal Court and punished according to Sections 408.01 and 408.02.

One piece of legislation that passed during new business gave a boost to the Downtown Revitalization Plan for the City of Kenton. The ordinance allowed for an appropriation of $50,000 to be transferred to the Downtown Revitalization fund. Councilwoman Teresa Styer explained that OHM, the engineering firm the city has contracted to help plan the scope of the project, had sent a proposal to council to move to the next phase of the project. That phase is to seek funding. The firm estimated that their fees would be $100,000 or less and gave the project committee the option to pay half in 2018 and half as they are billed when work is completed. Styer said that this was exactly what the money the committee started reserving four years ago was meant to go towards. Council President Althauser mentioned that the financing deadlines for the project are coming up quickly, and asked council to consider moving forward with the legislation Monday evening instead of going the full three readings. Councilwoman Styer also mentioned that if the city didn’t act on the project now, under their own terms, then in a few years they would be forced to act based on the aging water and sewer systems and the deteriorating infrastructure. Council voted unanimously to bypass the three reading rule and passed the legislation by an additional unanimous vote. Althauser noted that by passing the legislation, the council was officially accepting the proposal from OHM.

Also during the meeting, the council:

-Heard from Tim Street of Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative, who said that the cooperative had a franchise agreement and a territorial protection agreement that ran out in 2014. He said the cooperative would be reaching out to council to re-establish the agreement.

-Jon Cross, President and CEO of the Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance, commended council on moving forward with the downtown revitalization project. Cross told council that there were plans for the project at the Chamber office dating back to 1943, and noted that it was a “historical moment for us.”

-John Schwemer, City Law Director, told council that a petition had been filed on behalf of the Letson Avenue drainage problem mentioned several meetings ago.

-Mayor Randy Manns thanked several individuals for their work with the WOAL swim championships that took place in Kenton last week.

-Jim Hites, Safety Service Director, told council that if they receive comments from city residents about brush and debris from wind storms, they are to advise the individual to contact the city and to have patience. Hites noted that each time the city gets the brush from one storm cleaned up, another storm does additional damage and they have to start over.

-Tim Clark, Fire Chief, notified council that he had received another resignation letter from a firefighter. The department is now short three firefighters. He did recognize Firehouse Subs for a $31,000 grant for equipment and a private citizen, who left the department an additional $5,000 in his will.

The next meeting of the Kenton City Council will be held on Monday, August 14, 2017 at 7:00pm in Council Chambers.